New Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has remained resolute that he possesses the experience and skills necessary to manage the Nigerian national team, despite criticism from several football pundits.
The Nigeria Football Federation’s decision to appoint the 47-year-old Malian coach has been met with questions regarding his credentials. Critics point to his managerial experience primarily with lower-division French clubs like Athlético Marseille, Martigues, and Boulogne-sur-Mer, along with stints at Mali and Mouloudia Club of Oran.
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Addressing these concerns, Chelle told RFI, via Matin Libre: “Already, there are a lot of people who say that I don’t have much experience. But ultimately, I do have experience. I ended my career in 2014 and I’ve been coaching since that year. I coached a team, let’s say, from West Africa not long ago. I coached a team in Algeria, the Mouloudia Club d’Oran. So, I’m starting to get to know African football well. Today, I feel ready to lead this great team with great players. So, I’m part of the progression process; the players will help me progress and I will also help them because I have a vision of football that will fit well with this team.”
Chelle will face the challenge of managing a squad brimming with top stars, including Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen, and Samuel Chukwueze. He has vowed to build a positive rapport with the players, stating: “They are great players, great men. I will come with a lot of humility, but once again, I have a lot of certainties. It is a dialogue that we will have to establish between us.”
With crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe looming in March 2025, Chelle will be pressured to revitalize the Super Eagles’ campaign and reignite their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, the USA, and Mexico.
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